Crime & Safety
Rockford, IL Murder Case: Man Charged 4 Years After Woman Killed
Rockford, IL – More than four years after a 56 year old woman was fatally shot inside a Rockford home, police have announced a first degree murder charge against a local man, marking a significant dev
By Cole Barrett · 2026-11-03T18:43:04.992Z
Rockford, IL – More than four years after a 56 year old woman was fatally shot inside a Rockford home, police have announced a first degree murder charge against a local man, marking a significant development in a homicide investigation dating back to April 2022.
According to the Rockford Police Department , 37 year old Mario Perkins of Rockford has been charged in connection with the death of Tracy Morell, who was found suffering from an apparent gunshot wound at a residence in the 3500 block of Green Dale Drive.
The shooting occurred Monday, April 25, 2022, at approximately 10 p.m.
Officers responding to reports of gunfire and a possible shooting victim discovered that the front of the home had been struck multiple times by bullets.
Inside, officers located Morell, who had sustained a gunshot wound.
She was pronounced dead a short time later.
For more than four years, detectives continued investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
On Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, Rockford police announced that investigators had identified Perkins as the suspect.
After reviewing the case, the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office authorized a charge of first degree murder.
Police confirmed that Perkins was already being held in the Winnebago County Jail on unrelated charges when the murder charge was announced.
Authorities did not disclose what evidence led investigators to identify Perkins or whether additional individuals were involved.
The department indicated that further charges or arrests remain possible as the investigation continues.
The announcement represents a major development in a case that began with reports of gunfire at a Rockford residence more than four years earlier.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact Rockford police at 815 966 2900.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815 963 7867 or by texting RPD TIP and information to 847411.
Perkins is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.